I've written and given talks about how a landlord can find a good tenant, but after reading Boston Magazine's article "Lord of the Sties" last week, I began to think about how a tenant can find good landlord. It is more difficult for a tenant to research a landlord, because violations from Inspectional Services or the local Health Department are not generally available online. Here are some questions to ask and some research to undertake.
First, when you look at the apartment, pay close attention to the condition of the common areas as well as the apartment. Look up at the ceiling -- do you see water stains? Look at the floor -- is it cracked? Is there a lot of dirt and garbage accumulated in the corner? If there is laundry in the building, what does the area look like? Are there water stains in the basement?
Second, ask questions. Ask whoever shows you the apartment. If you see anyone in the hallway, ask whether they like living in the building. Ask about the landlord. Ask why the tenant moved out. Maybe you will get a real answer, maybe not, but you certainly won't know if you don't ask.
Third, if you can go back to the building without the manager or real estate agent, do so. Because of building security, this may not be possible, but if you are looking in the spring or summer maybe you can find some people leaving the building and, without stalking them, ask some questions.
Fourth, research your landlord. Find out his or her name and Google that person. If you have time, go to the Inspectional Services Department or Health Department for the city or town in which the apartment is located and ask to see records for that building. Anytime there is a violation of the Sanitary Code, the inspectors are supposed to write up the violation. These records are public record, they just are not online. Further, a town inspector probably knows which landlords are better and which are worse, particularly if you are dealing with a smaller city or town. Court records may not be as helpful because there are generally claims and counterclaims between landlord and tenant and unless you review the entire file, it may be difficult to determine whether there really are condition issues.
Finally, go with your gut. If you have a bad feeling about the apartment, then don't rent it, no matter how good a deal it might be.
